SL/R129: Fuel Filter 1991 500SL
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: California
1991 500SL, 1983 300SD
Fuel Filter 1991 500SL
Hi, and thanks for the opportunity to be a part of the Forum.
I want to change the filters (air and fuel) on my 500SL, but have run into a basic problem.
The air filters are easy to locate and, "mission accomplished". But, can someone please tell me the location of the fuel filter?
I hope it's not that 3 inch long canister beside the distributor on the driver's side, mixed in with all that "plumbing". If it is, should I attempt to replace it myself? Will I need any specialized tools? Or is it something that has to be done by the professionals?
Thanks for the help and any input.
Sincerely,
Frank
I want to change the filters (air and fuel) on my 500SL, but have run into a basic problem.
The air filters are easy to locate and, "mission accomplished". But, can someone please tell me the location of the fuel filter?
I hope it's not that 3 inch long canister beside the distributor on the driver's side, mixed in with all that "plumbing". If it is, should I attempt to replace it myself? Will I need any specialized tools? Or is it something that has to be done by the professionals?
Thanks for the help and any input.
Sincerely,
Frank
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 591
Likes: 9
From: Covington, WA
'96 SL600, '05 S55 AMG, '06 C230
Fuel filter is under the car, in front of the fuel tank, along side the fuel pump assembly. There should be a large cover that needs to be removed first, so you will not immediately see the filter with a quick glance. Changing the filter is fairly straight-forward, however...
Of all the maintenance tasks, this one can be dangerous; for obvious reasons. Gasoline will inevitably leak and drip, immediately creating a quantity of fumes. Any spark from a tool, electrical arc, broken bulb in a work light, etc., and you are caught in a very, VERY dangerous situation.
Changing the fuel filter can be done safely using special clamps or rubber-padded vise grips to clamp the fuel lines while the filter is changed. Do not attempt to change the fuel filter without properly clamping the fuel lines. Otherwise, you will end up with gallons of fuel on the floor faster than you can say an expletive or two. Other than the precautions, simple hand tools are all that is required.
If you're new to this sort of thing, I would strongly recommend finding an independent shop to replace the filter for you. Watching how it is changed properly will go a long way in protecting you in the future. You can buy the filter yourself, so that you provide the brand you want, and have the shop install it for you. On a professional car lift, time to change the fuel filter is about 15 minutes.
BTW – Congrats on changing the air filters!
Cheers,
Jeff
Of all the maintenance tasks, this one can be dangerous; for obvious reasons. Gasoline will inevitably leak and drip, immediately creating a quantity of fumes. Any spark from a tool, electrical arc, broken bulb in a work light, etc., and you are caught in a very, VERY dangerous situation.
Changing the fuel filter can be done safely using special clamps or rubber-padded vise grips to clamp the fuel lines while the filter is changed. Do not attempt to change the fuel filter without properly clamping the fuel lines. Otherwise, you will end up with gallons of fuel on the floor faster than you can say an expletive or two. Other than the precautions, simple hand tools are all that is required.
If you're new to this sort of thing, I would strongly recommend finding an independent shop to replace the filter for you. Watching how it is changed properly will go a long way in protecting you in the future. You can buy the filter yourself, so that you provide the brand you want, and have the shop install it for you. On a professional car lift, time to change the fuel filter is about 15 minutes.
BTW – Congrats on changing the air filters!
Cheers,
Jeff
Last edited by MB-Dude; Sep 10, 2007 at 12:01 AM.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: California
1991 500SL, 1983 300SD
Thanks, Jeff.
I really appreciate your help and advise.
I did look around the fuel tank, but obviously missed it. I'll look more carefully in the morning.
Changing a fuel filter is not a new process for me, but it is on this car. I purchsed it about 1 yr. ago as the 2nd owner. It's in great condition at 120k miles. This one has replaced a 4-speed '67 250SL.
Thanks again for your help.
Sincerely,
Frank
I really appreciate your help and advise.
I did look around the fuel tank, but obviously missed it. I'll look more carefully in the morning.
Changing a fuel filter is not a new process for me, but it is on this car. I purchsed it about 1 yr. ago as the 2nd owner. It's in great condition at 120k miles. This one has replaced a 4-speed '67 250SL.
Thanks again for your help.
Sincerely,
Frank
